Hillsborough, Grenada Travel Guide

Discover Hillsborough in Carriacou, Grenada: A tranquil coastal town with serene beaches, vibrant local culture, and rich history, perfect for a relaxing and authentic Caribbean experience.

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Hillsborough, the largest town on the island of Carriacou in Grenada, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This charming coastal town offers a unique blend of serene beaches, vibrant local culture, and rich history. With its laid-back atmosphere, Hillsborough is perfect for travelers looking to unwind and experience authentic Caribbean life. Start your journey at the picturesque Hillsborough Bay, where crystal-clear waters meet soft, sandy shores. The bay is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Stroll along the waterfront and you'll find colorful fishing boats bobbing in the harbor, reflecting the town's close ties to the sea. For a deeper dive into the local marine life, visit the nearby Sandy Island Marine Park, a short boat ride away, offering pristine coral reefs and diverse underwater ecosystems. Hillsborough's streets are lined with charming shops, cafes, and markets. Here, you can sample delicious local cuisine, from fresh seafood to traditional Grenadian dishes. Don't miss the vibrant market days, where vendors sell everything from tropical fruits to handmade crafts. The town's friendly residents are always eager to share stories and provide insights into their way of life. History enthusiasts will appreciate the Carriacou Museum, located in Hillsborough. This small yet informative museum showcases the island's rich heritage, including artifacts from its indigenous peoples and colonial past. Additionally, the town is home to several historic churches and buildings, each with its own unique story. Hillsborough is also a gateway to exploring the rest of Carriacou. Take a scenic drive or hike to discover hidden beaches, lush forests, and panoramic viewpoints. Whether you're looking to relax or embark on an adventure, Hillsborough offers a perfect blend of both, making it a must-visit destination in Grenada.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Hillsborough.

Visit on a market day to experience local culture and buy fresh produce and handmade crafts.
Take a boat trip to Sandy Island Marine Park for excellent snorkeling and pristine beaches.
Explore the Carriacou Museum for a deep dive into the island's history and heritage.
Rent a car or bike to explore the rest of Carriacou, including hidden beaches and scenic viewpoints.
Try local dishes like oil down and fresh seafood at the town's cafes and restaurants.

Explore Hillsborough: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Hillsborough

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River Antoine Estate Rum Distillery

Discover the heritage of rum-making in Grenada at River Antoine Estate, a historic distillery showcasing traditional processes and delicious samples.

4.7

Tobago Cays Marine Park

Explore the enchanting Tobago Cays Marine Park, a pristine paradise of crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, perfect for adventure and relaxation.

4.9

Bathway Beach

Discover Bathway Beach: Grenada's serene coastal gem with calm waters, vibrant marine life, and authentic local charm.

4.5

Belmont Estate

Discover Grenada's heritage at Belmont Estate: explore cocoa production, lush gardens, and authentic cuisine in a historic plantation setting.

4.5

Best landmarks in Hillsborough

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Tyrell Bay Beach

Explore the idyllic Tyrell Bay Beach in Grenada, where stunning views, vibrant culture, and thrilling activities await every traveler.

4.4

Grenada Underwater Sculpture Park

Discover a world of art beneath the waves at Grenada's unique underwater sculpture park. A mesmerizing dive into art and marine life.

4.4

Anse La Roche Bay

Discover Anse La Roche Bay in Carriacou: a secluded beach paradise with turquoise waters, vibrant marine life, and tranquil Caribbean vibes.

4.7

Belmont Estate

Explore Grenada's Belmont Estate: A historic plantation offering cocoa tours, lush gardens, and a taste of authentic Grenadian culture.

4.5

Best restaurants in Hillsborough

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Dodgy Dock Restaurant Grenada

Experience the vibrant flavors of Caribbean and Mexican cuisine at Dodgy Dock Restaurant in Grenada's beautiful True Blue area.

4.2

Coconut Beach Restaurant & Bar

Experience the essence of Caribbean dining at Coconut Beach Restaurant & Bar on Grand Anse Beach in Grenada.

4.1

bbs crab back

Experience the vibrant flavors of Grenada at BB's Crab Back – your go-to destination for fresh seafood with stunning waterfront views.

4.3

Paradise Beach Club, Carriacou

Savor exquisite Caribbean cuisine at Paradise Beach Club on beautiful Carriacou with stunning ocean views and lively atmosphere.

4.8

Best bars in Hillsborough

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Umbrella's Beach Bar

Experience the vibrant flavors and stunning views at Umbrella's Beach Bar, a perfect Caribbean retreat on Grand Anse Beach.

4.3

Esther's Bar

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Esther's Bar on Grand Anse beach, where refreshing cocktails and local cuisine meet stunning ocean views.

4.5

Prickly Bay Tiki Bar and Restaurant

Experience Caribbean flavor and vibrant atmosphere at Prickly Bay Tiki Bar and Restaurant, a top dining destination in Grenada.

3.9

La Plywood Beach Bar Café

Discover the vibrant flavors and stunning views at La Plywood Beach Bar Café, the perfect coastal escape in Grenada.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Hillsborough

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Bananas (Grenada)

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Grenada at Bananas, a lively bar and restaurant featuring tropical drinks, delicious food, and unforgettable entertainment.

4.0

Paradise Beach Club, Carriacou

Discover the culinary delights of Paradise Beach Club, where fresh seafood meets stunning Caribbean views in Carriacou.

4.8

The Coconut Bar

Experience the laid-back vibe and tropical flavors at The Coconut Bar in Grenada, where relaxation meets vibrant island culture.

4.4

Rocky's Beach Bar

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views at Rocky's Beach Bar in St. George's, Grenada – your tropical getaway awaits!

4.7

Best shops in Hillsborough

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Kim's Plaza Guesthouse & Supermarket

Discover the unique blend of Chinese and local flavors at Kim's Plaza Guesthouse & Supermarket in beautiful Argyle, Grenada.

3.9

Deefer Diving Carriacou

Explore the vibrant underwater world at Deefer Diving Carriacou, your gateway to unforgettable SCUBA adventures in the Caribbean.

4.5

D&D Supercenter

Explore local flavors and essentials at D&D Supercenter in Hillsborough, the ultimate supermarket for tourists in Grenada.

4.6

The Family Store

Experience the local charm at The Family Store in Carriacou, your one-stop destination for groceries, appliances, and local spirits.

4.6

Explore Hillsborough on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Hillsborough, mapped for you.

Hillsborough Essentials

Hillsborough is the main town on the island of Carriacou, part of Grenada. The nearest international airport is Maurice Bishop International Airport in St. George's, Grenada. From there, you can take a short domestic flight to Carriacou's Lauriston Airport. Alternatively, a ferry service operates between Grenada and Carriacou, offering a scenic sea route. The ferry ride typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Hillsborough is small and easily navigable on foot. For longer journeys, local taxis are available, and car rentals can be arranged. Public minibuses operate throughout Carriacou, connecting Hillsborough with other parts of the island. Bicycles and scooters are also popular rental options for exploring the area at your own pace.
The official currency in Grenada is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Hillsborough where you can withdraw cash using international bank cards.
Hillsborough is generally safe for tourists. Standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping your belongings secure. While crime rates are low, it's advisable to remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but always stay aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Hillsborough has a local police station and a medical clinic that can handle minor health issues. For serious medical emergencies, evacuation to Grenada may be necessary. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available for over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Beachwear should be confined to the beach. Religion: Do respect local customs and religious practices. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give up your seat to elderly or disabled passengers. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Good morning' or 'Good afternoon.' A handshake is customary. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality as it may be considered impolite.
To experience Hillsborough like a local, visit the local markets where you can purchase fresh produce and handmade crafts. Engage with residents, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the island. Don’t miss the annual Carriacou Carnival, a vibrant celebration of local culture. For a unique experience, visit the nearby Sandy Island, a beautiful spot for snorkeling and relaxation.

When is the best time to visit Hillsborough?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Hillsborough

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Hillsborough. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHello
  [Hel-lo]
- GoodbyeGoodbye
  [Gud-bye]
- YesYes
  [Yes]
- NoNo
  [No]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
  [Pleez/You're welcome]
- Thank youThank you
  [Tank yu]
- Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/Sorry
  [Ex-kuse me/Sor-ry]
- How are you?How are you?
  [How are yu?]
- Fine. And you?Fine. And you?
  [Fine. An yu?]
- Do you speak English?Do you speak English?
  [Do yu speak Ing-lish?]
- I don't understandI don't understand
  [I don't un-der-stand]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI'd like to see the menu, please
  [I'd like to see the menu, please]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [I don't eat meat]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI would like to pay, please
  [I would like to pay, please]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Go away!
  [Go away!]
- Call the Police!Call the Police!
  [Call the Police!]
- Call a doctor!Call a doctor!
  [Call a doctor!]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [I'm lost]
- I'm illI'm ill
  [I'm ill]
- I'd like to buy...I'd like to buy...
  [I'd like to buy...]
- I'm just lookingI'm just looking
  [I'm just looking]
- How much is it?How much is it?
  [How much is it?]
- That's too expensiveThat's too expensive
  [That's too expensive]
- Can you lower the price?Can you lower the price?
  [Can you lower the price?]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [What time is it?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [It's one o'clock]
- Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [Half past (10)]
- MorningMorning
  [Morning]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
- EveningEvening
  [Evening]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesterday]
- TodayToday
  [Today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
- 11
  [1]
- 22
  [2]
- 33
  [3]
- 44
  [4]
- 55
  [5]
- 66
  [6]
- 77
  [7]
- 88
  [8]
- 99
  [9]
- 1010
  [10]
- Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?
  [Where's a/the...?]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's the address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [Can you show me (on the map)?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [When's the next (bus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A ticket (to ....)]

History of Hillsborough

Hillsborough, the largest town on the island of Carriacou, was established by British settlers in the 18th century. The town quickly became an important hub for trade and commerce due to its strategic location along the coastline, facilitating the export of goods such as sugar, cotton, and rum.
While Hillsborough was predominantly under British control, the French also played a significant role in the town's early history. Their influence is evident in the architectural styles and place names found throughout the area. French settlers contributed to the cultural mosaic of Hillsborough, bringing with them customs and traditions that continue to be celebrated today.
Hillsborough, like much of the Caribbean, was deeply affected by the transatlantic slave trade. Enslaved Africans were brought to Carriacou to work on plantations, and their presence has had a lasting impact on the town's demographic and cultural landscape. The legacy of slavery is commemorated in local museums and historical sites, ensuring that this dark chapter of history is not forgotten.
Following the abolition of slavery in 1834, Hillsborough began to transform. Freedmen and their descendants contributed to the town's development, establishing businesses, schools, and churches. This period saw the growth of a vibrant and resilient community that laid the foundation for modern Hillsborough.
One of the most significant cultural events in Hillsborough is the annual Carriacou Regatta, which began in 1965. This celebrated event showcases traditional boat-building skills and maritime culture, drawing visitors from around the world. The regatta not only highlights the town's rich seafaring heritage but also strengthens communal bonds and local pride.
Today, Hillsborough is a bustling town that blends historical charm with modern amenities. It serves as the administrative and commercial center of Carriacou, offering visitors a glimpse into its storied past while providing the comforts of contemporary life. The town's markets, historical sites, and cultural festivals make it a vibrant destination for travelers.